Summer Fun

“Can we go to the zoo? Can we go to the park? Can we go to the movies?”

Oh my goodness child, it’s only the second week of summer break and you’re bored?! It’s going to be a loooong summer. I’m sure there are more than a few parents right now thinking this exact same thing. Luckily, I started preparing for the “summer boredom blues” a few months back. Each time I went to the store, I picked up a craft item like popsicle sticks, coloring books, and Play-Doh to name a few. I also looked on Pinterest and found some great ideas to keep the kids busy. Instead of doing my meal plan for this week, I thought I’d share a few ways to help keep those summer boredom blues away.

Noodle Time! ~ I love this idea! Not only is it cheap, (Walmart has pool noodles for $1.88 and a pack of balloons for $1.) but also it will help get some of the pent up energy out of the kids. Grab a couple pool swim noodles and a blow up a few balloons and let the kids whack away.

Bug Hunt ~ If you have boys, they will especially love this game! Draw a few bugs on a piece of paper (or grab some bug stickers at the Dollar Store). Then take a magnifying glass, and go out in the backyard and see how many of each bug you can find. You can also put birds, snakes, or even squirrels on the list.

Play-Doh ~ What kid doesn’t like playing with Play-Doh? I did pick up a few packs at the Dollar Store, but I do plan on making my own, too. (See recipe below.) It’s so easy to make and the kids will have fun helping you.

Sidewalk Chalk ~ If you’re feeling really crafty you can make your own or you can grab some at the store for your budding artists.

Bath Paints ~ I have to try this! Mix shaving cream and food coloring, throw the kids in the tub, give them some brushes, and see the wonderful masterpieces they create. I LOVE this idea!

Colored Pasta ~ Looking for a fun food craft? Have the kids help you dye pasta for dinner! You need food coloring, pasta, baggies, and vinegar. Divide pasta into bags put about a teaspoon of vinegar into each bag with a few drops of food coloring, close bag and shake to distribute food coloring, then open bag to dry. Cook your pasta as usual.

Bubbles ~ Kids loves bubbles and so it seems that we’re always running out. In a pinch, you can make your own and keep the kids entertained for pennies!

Have fun this summer with your kids! It doesn’t take a lot of money to keep them entertained. :)

1. Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture holds together, about 5 minutes.

2. Remove the pan from the heat and set it aside until the dough is cool enough to touch, about 5 minutes. Turn the clay onto a waxed-paper-lined countertop and knead it for 2 to 3 minutes. Roll the dough in color coordinating glitter.

3. Once the dough is completely cool, pack it in the spice jars or in airtight containers.

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